Atletico Madrid took a big step toward the Copa del Rey semi-finals when Radamel Falcao set them on the way to a 2-0 win at home to Real Betis Balompie in their last-eight first-leg on Thursday.
Colombia striker Falcao, coveted by several of Europe’s richest clubs, nodded the opener in the 11th minute at the Calderon and Brazilian fullback Filipe Luis added a second 12 minutes later.
Betis had their chances and dominated possession for long periods in the second half but Atletico’s Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, on loan from Chelsea, was in inspired form.
Photo: AFP
“We knew that Betis were going to pressure us in the second half,” Atletico captain Gabi said in a pitchside interview with television broadcaster Telecinco.
“But we played a great first half and we were able to hold on to the advantage and get a very good result,” the midfielder said. “I think it’s still 50-50, we have to go to their stadium and they are playing very well but we will work hard to get through.”
If Atletico can protect their lead in next week’s second leg in Seville they would meet Sevilla, who beat them in the 2010 final, or Real Zaragoza in the last four.
New Sevilla coach Unai Emery, appointed this week to replace the sacked Michel, had a disappointing debut when the Andalusian club were held to a 0-0 draw at Zaragoza on Wednesday.
Holders Barcelona squandered a chance to all but seal a probable semi-final showdown with great rivals Real Madrid when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to 10-man Malaga on Wednesday.
Real, the 2011 winners, have one foot in the last four after beating Valencia 2-0 at the Bernabeu on Tuesday.
US track and field athletes have about four dozen pieces to choose from when assembling their uniforms at the Olympics. The one grabbing the most attention is a high-cut leotard that barely covers the bikini line and has triggered debate between those who think it is sexist and others who say they do not need the Internet to make sure they have good uniforms. Among those critical or laughing at the uniforms included Paralympian Femita Ayanbeku, sprinter Britton Wilson and even athletes from other countries such as Britain’s Abigail Irozuru, who wrote on social media: “Was ANY female athlete consulted in
Four-time NBA all-star DeMarcus Cousins arrived in Taiwan with his family early yesterday to finish his renewed contract with the Taiwan Beer Leopards in the T1 League. Cousins initially played a four-game contract with the Leopards in January. On March 18, the Taoyuan-based team announced that Cousins had renewed his contract. “Hi what’s up Leopard fans, I’m back. I’m excited to be back and can’t wait to join the team,” Cousins said in a video posted on the Leopard’s Facebook page. “Most of all, can’t wait to see you guys, the fans, next weekend. So make sure you come out and support the Beer
Former US Masters champion Zach Johnson was left embarrassed after a foul-mouthed response to ironic cheers from spectators after a triple bogey at Augusta National on Friday. Johnson, the 2007 Masters winner, missed the cut after his three-over-par round of 75 left him on seven-over 151 for 36 holes, his six on the par-three 12th playing a big role in his downfall. Television footage showed Johnson reacting to sarcastic cheers and applause when he tapped in for the triple bogey by yelling: “Oh fuck off.” Such a response would be considered bad form in any golf tournament, but is particularly out of keeping
The sacred flame for the Paris Olympics was lit yesterday in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the ancient Games, in a ceremony inspired by antiquity and marked by messages of hope amid multiple global crises. “In ancient times, the Olympic Games brought together the Greek city states, even — and in particular — during times of war and conflict,” International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said. “Today, the Olympic Games are the only event that brings the entire world together in peaceful competition. Then as now, the Olympic athletes are sending this powerful message — yes, it is possible to compete fiercely